Many people think that the distinctive feature of community colleges is that they offer two-year degrees, but they differ from four-year colleges in many other ways as well.
Community colleges, in fact, were created to be different than four year colleges so they could meet the educational needs of students who had traditionally been unlikely to attend a four year college or university. And, their creation (along with the growth of online education) did what it was intended to to; increase the number of students enrolled in higher education.
The relatively low cost of community college has brought down one of the main barriers to higher education for adults, would-be first generation college students, and underrepresented students. The average age of community college students is in the mid-twenties, higher than the average in residential colleges. And, all but the most rural community colleges enroll a greater percentage of minority students than their four year counterparts.
Aside from very affordable tuition and fees, community colleges attract students with a very simply, non-threatening application process. First of all, their open admissions policies assure admission to all high school graduates and/or everyone who has earned a GED. And, community college applicants need not take the ACT or SAT, submit letters of recommendations, or write essays. Community college admissions policies reflect their mission; to afford easy access to all.
And, community colleges rarely have an application deadline. In most instances, students can apply and be admitted the same week a semester begins.
It should be noted that although virtually all applicants are admitted to community colleges, admission to particular majors may require experience and/or completion of prerequisite coursework. For instance, admission to a nursing program might well require coursework in science and/or mathematics.
Although four-year colleges are more likely to offer more evening and weekend classes than ever before, community colleges are often more focused on offering classes at times that allow working adults to complete degree programs without taking time away from their careers. Only online colleges are more convenient.
Community colleges are frequently a preferred option for adults who require a course or a few courses, but are not interested in earning a degree. You might be surprised to learn that only about one of four community college students subsequently attend a four year institution.
For students who have not completed a college preparatory curriculum in high school, adults who have been away from a classroom for many years, students whose educational goals do not include a bachelors degree, and others, a community college may be an excellent choice.
Daniel Z. Kane is a university dean who has also worked in a community college. If you are considering an online college or online education, you'll find his websites very helpful. This and other unique content 'community college' articles are available with free reprint rights.
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